Categories: Dental Implants

How to Prevent an Infection After Getting Dental Implants

For many people, dental implants are life-changing, as they drastically improve the appearance of the smile and increase overall comfort and function. That said, the process of installing implants is invasive, requiring several surgeries. As with any surgery, proper care post-implantation is key to preventing infection and ensuring the procedure’s success.

Reducing risk of infection following dental implants surgery

Any area of the body that undergoes surgery becomes exposed for a while and takes time to heal, meaning it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The good news is that the risk of infection after dental implant surgery is relatively low, and even treating infection can be easy if a patient sees a dentist after developing warning signs. Symptoms of infection include the following:

  • Red or swollen gums at the site of the implant
  • Loose or wobbly implants
  • Pus emanating from the area of the implant
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Dull ache or throbbing pain
  • Fever
  • Visible threads
  • Bleeding when brushing around the implant

All of these symptoms can typically be avoided with proper care post-implant surgery.

Good oral hygiene

A robust oral hygiene routine is a recommended way to prevent an infection from occurring after dental implant surgery. An implant patient’s oral hygiene routine should consist of gently brushing twice a day as normal. Regular brushing helps to prevent the buildup of infection-causing bacteria.

In addition to brushing, patients should also floss regularly. Flossing helps to remove the food particles that a toothbrush cannot reach and ensures that the gums and teeth have a healthy environment in which they can thrive.

Rinse regularly

An essential aspect of the dental implant healing process is rinsing. Patients are advised to rinse the mouth once or twice a day with a dentist-approved mouthwash or a saltwater solution. When the wound is healing, it is much more prone to infection from stubborn bacteria. Rinsing helps to control bacteria buildup and, subsequently, reduce the risk of infection.

Avoid smoking

Smoking not only invites a ton of bacteria into the mouth but also jeopardizes the body’s ability to heal properly. As a result, it is one of the worst things a patient can do post-implant surgery. Dentists advise patients to avoid smoking both prior to and following surgery.

Avoid foods and beverages high in sugar

Sugar is bad for the gums at any time, but it is especially damaging to gums that are in the healing process. At least while the implants heal, patients should avoid foods and beverages that contain a lot of sugar, as it can cause excess bacteria buildup. Sugar particles are also extremely small and can hide in the deepest crevices of the mouth, including within the site of the surgery.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Conclusion

Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, but only if the initial implantation succeeds. If you want your procedure to be a success, talk to a dentist about ways to care for the implants immediately following the surgery and long into the future.

Request an appointment or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at 518-675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

Recent Posts

The Different Types Of Dental Implant Restorations

Dental implant restorations have transformed dentistry by offering a versatile and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. This approach to smile restoration seamlessly combines durability and natural aesthetics, restoring oral function and appearance. Because implant restorations can support different types of dental prosthetics, they address a variety of needs while preserving oral health. Understanding the…

What To Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Approval for dental implants puts you one step closer to restoring a complete, healthy smile. Dental implants can restore both the appearance and functionality of a full set of teeth. This way, patients can enjoy a full set of teeth along with a smile they enjoy showing off. The process is somewhat lengthy, so knowing…

Exploring Different Types Of Dental Implants And Their Benefits

Wondering about dental implants? Read on to learn more. If you have experienced tooth loss and are exploring potential replacement options, then you have probably heard about dental implants. Dentists and patients are turning to tooth implants because it is provenly effective for replacing missing teeth. However, there are different implants, each of which is…

Dr. Ryan Osinski

Share
Published by
Dr. Ryan Osinski

Recent Posts

Full Mouth Dental Implants are an Option for Replacing Missing Teeth

Full mouth dental implants are a preferred option for replacing missing teeth teeth rather than…

1 day ago

Finding the Replacement Option for Your Missing Tooth

Replacing a missing tooth is about more than appearance.

2 days ago

3 Options for Replacing Missing Teeth To Avoid Shifting Teeth

Are you looking into your options for replacing missing teeth? Fortunately, there are various options…

3 days ago

Options for Replacing Missing Teeth To Restore Your Oral Health

Have you lost one or more teeth and are you looking for options for replacing…

1 week ago

The Different Types of Dental Implant Restorations

Understanding the different types of implant restorations highlights their versatility and benefits for long-term oral…

1 week ago

3 Options for Replacing Missing Teeth and Avoiding Bone Loss

If you are missing teeth, you should visit a dentist to discuss your options for…

1 week ago